The 11 winsome folk songs on
Dear Hamlyn
represent the initial collaboration between
Zoe Randall
and
Steve Hassett
, the pair of Australian musicians better known as
Luluc
. Having first met halfway around the world in Edinburgh, the two returned to their native Melbourne and began the creative partnership whose chemistry can be so clearly heard on this excellent debut. Written in the months after the death of
Randall
's father,
introduces her plainspoken but deeply poetic lyrical style as well as
Hassett
's soft touch as an arranger, harmonist, and lead guitarist. Understated brass and string sections dip in and out of standouts like "The Wealthiest Queen" and "A Whisper," accenting small crescendos and supporting the songs' already graceful structures without ever becoming too ornate or fussy. Likewise,
's voices merge in a natural, unshowy confluence, giving songs like "Black Umbrella" and "One Day Soon" a rustic elegance and easy movement. Even at their most melancholic, a spring-like wistfulness imbues
's gently melodies and sweet harmonies. Their music never broods, but merely notes the passage of time, the workings of nature (human and otherwise), and the heartbreaks and joys that occur within these confines. Like the songs themselves,
's journey was subtle and measured. Released independently in 2008 to an Australian audience, it slowly made its way beyond their home continent, accumulating fans and acclaim around the world and leading
to relocate to New York and sign a deal with
Sub Pop
six years later. Following two more gorgeous albums and widespread accolades,
's debut was finally made available outside of Australia via
's 2019 reissue. ~ Timothy Monger